Today, that dream is a reality. The Maranyundo Girls School – with half of its students from economically vulnerable families — opened 2008 and within just a few years achieved national standing as one of the top schools in the country.

The mission of the school is to offer students not simply access to education but academic excellence. It provides degree-qualified teachers, small classes, teacher-enrichment opportunities and a beautiful, safe, well- equipped campus in which to learn. Open and welcoming to students of all faiths, it is run by the Benebikira Sisters, a Rwandan order of Roman Catholic nuns who have a long history of providing quality education to the poor.

Educating Girls: A Powerful Force for Change

Our mission is to offer economically vulnerable girls access to academic excellence. Our magic is a deeply held belief that every girl in this diverse community – regardless of family finances or background – can achieve great things.

The school’s performance tells the story: Its first graduating class ranked #1 among all middle schools for girls in the country and every class since has met or exceeded this standard. This is a remarkable achievement for a school where 50% of its students come from impoverished circumstances and under-performing schools.

"When you give someone a future, it is something that cannot perish." - Teacher Lydia, Maranyundo School